It national Bike Week so why not plan a bike ride with the children this week? Cycling can be great fun, has lots of health benefits, and a cheaper way to travel.

With the nice Summer weather on its way (or so we are promised) and the children due to break up from school soon, finding something to do outdoors can be a challenge. Luckily cycling is something the whole family can do. It is easy to adapt your route each time so everyone’s entertained and no one ever gets left behind. It doesn’t matter what age you are, cycling is a way of getting out and about in this beautiful county, enjoying the health benefits and avoiding the summer holiday boredom that so often starts to appear!

Rather than taking the car, maybe you could cycle to see friends or to the local park. Get your dose of fresh air and start to feel the benefits of cycling as you become fitter and healthier and save some money at the same time!

It’s important to remember, when you’re out and about on your bikes, to remain safe and seen. Find out more about cycling safely here. You can sign up for 2 hours of free cycle training, as long as you live or work in Shropshire

When riding, it’s important not to wear any floaty clothes that could get caught in the wheels or chain of the bike. Tie trousers close to your ankles if you can, you can use a hair band for this or even tuck them into your socks!

Once you’re ready and prepared, it’s important to make sure your bike is too. Check your brakes and tyre pressures regularly, and take your bike for a regular service .

It’s always handy if you’re going on longer bike rides to take a map and some water. It can also be useful to take a mobile phone just in case.

When the autumn arrives make sure your bike has lights – a red light at the rear and a white light at the front. Check that your lights are not obscured by panniers or your basket and carry spare batteries with you. It’s also a good idea to increase your bike’s visibility with reflective stickers or spoke reflectors.

If you are at all nervous about cycling with your children, think about trying Shropshire Council’s free adult cycle training. You can do this one-to-one, with a group of friends or with your family at a location and date to suit you. The training is tailor made to your needs. Sign up at the Travel Shropshire www.travelshropshire.co.uk/training